Can AT&T lock the IPhone that I bought?

My phone service had been shut off several times and I was never charged a startup fee. 3 bills later they charged me. I had been a customer for 12+ Yrs and have purchased 4 iPhones, an IPad and numerous Bluetooth devices. Is it legal to lock this phone that I own?

If by "I bought etc" you mean you paid for the phone - then it's yours. If it was an AT&T sourced phone and you bought it from them, then likely their T&Cs are such that they restrict to their networks only?

However there are unlock codes for all phones; and no doubt AT&T can unlock it for a fee" and possibly there are local shops/techies who can do it too (possibly a little cheaper)?

In the UK companies are compelled by law to unlock any phone - for free; but if there is a contract running still, then the contract must be honoured fully in terms of use - or you buy it out...

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